I was reading an article recently about why seniors are reluctant to get a second medical opinion. It was really quite interesting, because I find that I am the same way and I am only a senior by AARP standards. Many of us grew up with going to the family doctor for everything. The same doctor who gave us antibiotics for strep throat also delivered our babies. One doctor did it all. Today is quite different. There seems to be a doctor for each type of illness (well almost). Perhaps the elderly are frustrated with so many different types of doctors that a second opinion to the same type of doctor just doesn't occur to them. Or perhaps, it is the way they were brought up to respect and not question those in authority. Caregivers to the elderly are in a sensitive yet sometimes difficult situation when it comes to suggesting and sometimes insisting that an elderly family member get a second opinion. It is a good idea to get a second opinion when it comes to serious or potentially serious health problems or an illness that requires heavy duty medication and special diets.
Karen Best Wright, B.S. Community Health Education
www.SeniorPro.com
www.RaisingYourGrandchildren.com
www.GrandparentingBlog.com
